Interaction of BANCR in the relationship between Hashimoto’s thyroiditis and papillary thyroid carcinoma expression patterns and possible molecular mechanisms

Abstract

BackgroundPrevious studies have established a connection between Hashimoto’s thyroiditis (HT) and an increased risk of papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC). However, the molecular mechanisms driving this association are not well understood. The long non‐coding RNA (lncRNA) BRAF‐activated non‐coding RNA (BANCR) has been implicated in various cancers, suggesting a potential role in the HT‐PTC linkage.MethodsThis study investigated the expression levels of BANCR in PTC and HT samples, compared to control tissues. We also examined the association between BANCR expression and clinicopathological features, including lymph node metastasis. Furthermore, we explored the molecular mechanisms of BANCR in PTC pathogenesis and its potential as a therapeutic target.ResultsBANCR expression was significantly lower in PTC samples than in controls, while it was moderately increased in HT samples. In PTC cases with concurrent HT, BANCR expression was markedly reduced compared to normal tissues. Our analysis revealed BANCR’s role as an oncogene in PTC, influencing various cancer‐related signaling pathways. Interestingly, no significant correlation was found between BANCR expression and lymph node metastasis.ConclusionOur findings underscore the involvement of BANCR in the connection between HT and PTC. The distinct expression patterns of BANCR in PTC and HT, especially in PTC with concurrent HT, provide new insights into the molecular interplay between these conditions. This study opens avenues for the development of innovative diagnostic and therapeutic strategies targeting BANCR in PTC and HT.